Maturova, Ruzena (1869 - 1938)

Notable Czech soprano, from 1893 soloist at the National Theatre Opera. She featured in the premieres of Dvorak’s last three operas: as the Princess in The Devil and Kate, and in the title roles in Rusalka and Armida. For her superb performance in the role of Rusalka, Dvorak is said to have written the part of Armida specifically with her in mind. On the day of Dvorak’s death, Maturova was among the first to arrive at the family’s apartment in Prague to pay her respects to the Master.